Women Leading the Charge in IT: A New Era of Empowerment
May 15, 2025, 6:30 am
In the ever-evolving landscape of technology, women are not just participants; they are leaders, innovators, and change-makers. The recent recognition of Ciera Cole and Crystal Conkle from The 20 MSP, alongside Tanya Steele and Samara Halterman from Myriad360, on the 2025 Women of the Channel Power 80 Solution Provider list, underscores a significant shift in the IT channel. This prestigious accolade highlights the vital role women play in driving growth, strategy, and client success.
The IT sector has long been viewed as a male-dominated arena. However, the tide is turning. Women are stepping into leadership roles, bringing fresh perspectives and innovative strategies. They are reshaping the narrative and redefining success in technology. The CRN Power 80 list is a testament to this transformation, spotlighting women who are not only excelling in their roles but also paving the way for future generations.
Ciera Cole, Chief Experience Officer at The 20, exemplifies this new breed of leader. Her journey began early in her career at The 20, where she quickly rose through the ranks. Cole's focus on creating a unified, high-impact experience for the company's national MSP network has been instrumental in driving member retention and satisfaction. Her strategic vision is not just about numbers; it’s about building relationships and fostering a culture of excellence. She earned her MBA while working full-time, a testament to her dedication and ambition.
Similarly, Crystal Conkle, Chief Marketing Officer at The 20, is a powerhouse in her own right. With two decades of experience, she has a knack for turning strategy into scale. Conkle’s expertise in demand generation and brand evolution has propelled The 20 MSP and its network of MSPs to new heights. Her entrepreneurial spirit and strategic marketing acumen make her a formidable force in the industry. Together, Cole and Conkle are setting a high standard for leadership in the IT channel.
Over at Myriad360, Tanya Steele and Samara Halterman are making waves as well. Steele, as Chief Experience Officer, has transformed the company's channel business through strategic innovation. Her leadership has led to an impressive 80% improvement in services utilization and a remarkable Net Promoter Score of 89. Steele’s client-first approach is not just a strategy; it’s a philosophy that permeates the organization. She has built a dedicated Service Operations department, significantly reducing order error rates. Her focus on collaboration and exceptional client outcomes positions Myriad360 as a trusted partner in the technology landscape.
On the marketing front, Samara Halterman has been recognized for her transformative impact on Myriad360’s channel strategy. A six-time honoree on the CRN Women of the Channel list, Halterman’s experience spans global solution providers. She has architected innovative co-marketing frameworks that empower partners and enhance revenue growth. Her human-centered approach balances client needs with pragmatic innovation, ensuring that Myriad360 remains at the forefront of the industry. Halterman’s commitment to mentoring emerging female leaders further strengthens the culture at Myriad360 and contributes to a more inclusive IT ecosystem.
The recognition of these four women is not just about individual achievement; it reflects a broader commitment to leadership excellence in the IT channel. As the industry continues to evolve, the contributions of women like Cole, Conkle, Steele, and Halterman are crucial. They are not just breaking glass ceilings; they are building new foundations for future leaders.
The 2025 Women of the Channel Power 80 list serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration. It highlights the importance of diversity in leadership and the positive impact it can have on organizations. As these women continue to drive transformation and growth, they are also paving the way for others to follow. Their stories are a reminder that with determination, innovation, and collaboration, anything is possible.
In a world where technology is the backbone of business, the role of women in IT cannot be overstated. They are the architects of change, the strategists of growth, and the champions of client success. As we celebrate their achievements, we must also recognize the work that lies ahead. The journey toward equality in the tech industry is ongoing, but with leaders like Cole, Conkle, Steele, and Halterman at the helm, the future looks bright.
The IT channel is evolving, and women are leading the charge. Their contributions are not just reshaping their organizations; they are transforming the entire industry. As we look to the future, let us continue to support and uplift women in technology. Their success is a win for all of us. The next generation of leaders is watching, and with role models like these, they will be inspired to reach new heights.
In conclusion, the recognition of these women is a powerful reminder of the impact of diverse leadership in technology. It’s a call to action for organizations to foster an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive. The IT channel is stronger with women leading the way, and the future is full of promise. Let’s celebrate their achievements and continue to champion diversity in all its forms.
The IT sector has long been viewed as a male-dominated arena. However, the tide is turning. Women are stepping into leadership roles, bringing fresh perspectives and innovative strategies. They are reshaping the narrative and redefining success in technology. The CRN Power 80 list is a testament to this transformation, spotlighting women who are not only excelling in their roles but also paving the way for future generations.
Ciera Cole, Chief Experience Officer at The 20, exemplifies this new breed of leader. Her journey began early in her career at The 20, where she quickly rose through the ranks. Cole's focus on creating a unified, high-impact experience for the company's national MSP network has been instrumental in driving member retention and satisfaction. Her strategic vision is not just about numbers; it’s about building relationships and fostering a culture of excellence. She earned her MBA while working full-time, a testament to her dedication and ambition.
Similarly, Crystal Conkle, Chief Marketing Officer at The 20, is a powerhouse in her own right. With two decades of experience, she has a knack for turning strategy into scale. Conkle’s expertise in demand generation and brand evolution has propelled The 20 MSP and its network of MSPs to new heights. Her entrepreneurial spirit and strategic marketing acumen make her a formidable force in the industry. Together, Cole and Conkle are setting a high standard for leadership in the IT channel.
Over at Myriad360, Tanya Steele and Samara Halterman are making waves as well. Steele, as Chief Experience Officer, has transformed the company's channel business through strategic innovation. Her leadership has led to an impressive 80% improvement in services utilization and a remarkable Net Promoter Score of 89. Steele’s client-first approach is not just a strategy; it’s a philosophy that permeates the organization. She has built a dedicated Service Operations department, significantly reducing order error rates. Her focus on collaboration and exceptional client outcomes positions Myriad360 as a trusted partner in the technology landscape.
On the marketing front, Samara Halterman has been recognized for her transformative impact on Myriad360’s channel strategy. A six-time honoree on the CRN Women of the Channel list, Halterman’s experience spans global solution providers. She has architected innovative co-marketing frameworks that empower partners and enhance revenue growth. Her human-centered approach balances client needs with pragmatic innovation, ensuring that Myriad360 remains at the forefront of the industry. Halterman’s commitment to mentoring emerging female leaders further strengthens the culture at Myriad360 and contributes to a more inclusive IT ecosystem.
The recognition of these four women is not just about individual achievement; it reflects a broader commitment to leadership excellence in the IT channel. As the industry continues to evolve, the contributions of women like Cole, Conkle, Steele, and Halterman are crucial. They are not just breaking glass ceilings; they are building new foundations for future leaders.
The 2025 Women of the Channel Power 80 list serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration. It highlights the importance of diversity in leadership and the positive impact it can have on organizations. As these women continue to drive transformation and growth, they are also paving the way for others to follow. Their stories are a reminder that with determination, innovation, and collaboration, anything is possible.
In a world where technology is the backbone of business, the role of women in IT cannot be overstated. They are the architects of change, the strategists of growth, and the champions of client success. As we celebrate their achievements, we must also recognize the work that lies ahead. The journey toward equality in the tech industry is ongoing, but with leaders like Cole, Conkle, Steele, and Halterman at the helm, the future looks bright.
The IT channel is evolving, and women are leading the charge. Their contributions are not just reshaping their organizations; they are transforming the entire industry. As we look to the future, let us continue to support and uplift women in technology. Their success is a win for all of us. The next generation of leaders is watching, and with role models like these, they will be inspired to reach new heights.
In conclusion, the recognition of these women is a powerful reminder of the impact of diverse leadership in technology. It’s a call to action for organizations to foster an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive. The IT channel is stronger with women leading the way, and the future is full of promise. Let’s celebrate their achievements and continue to champion diversity in all its forms.